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Department of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing
Dr. Euwanna Heard
Assistant Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator, Department of Nursing
Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics, & Nursing, room 2108
301-860-3206
eheard@bowiestate.edu
Advance Your Career with a Master of Science in Nursing
Earn your Master of Science in nursing at Bowie State University and develop the technical skills to complete advanced patient assessment, lead and manage complex systems, advocate for vital medical policies and collaborate with medical, educational and political experts. Our curriculum prepares you to incorporate evidence-based strategies, clinical practice guidelines and patient-centered care into any professional setting. You will learn to influence systems, procedures and practices in either a clinical or educational environment.
When you complete your Master of Science in Nursing, you will be equipped to deliver high-quality patient care as a nurse practitioner or drive organizational change by educating the next generation of nurses. You will also significantly enhance your career mobility and increase your earning potential.
This degree program can also be accessed off-site at University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland
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Why a Master of Science in Nursing at Bowie State?
Bowie State University’s Master of Science in nursing program emphasizes cultural competency, healthcare equity and understanding the social determinants of health. At our Simulation Resource Center, you will work with real individuals and robotic units to hone your skills in assessment, diagnostics, communication and advanced care techniques.
As Maryland’s first HBCU, our small class sizes and close-knit learning environment provide direct access to a culturally and professionally diverse faculty. This approach has earned us recognition as the best nursing master’s program, according to U.S. News & World Report.
We provide hands-on training in state-of-the-art equipment that gives you the skills to confidently navigate the latest industry equipment. When you choose Bowie State, you’re choosing an affordable graduate program that increases your employability, earning potential and future success.
ACEN Accreditation
The master’s, master’s/post-master’s certificate program at Bowie State University located in Bowie, Maryland is accredited by the:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000
The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the master’s, master’s/post-master’s certificate program is Continuing Accreditation.
View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program.
Our program offers two distinct tracks to suit your career goals. If you want to advance your career in patient care, consider the Family Nurse Practitioner Track. However, if your passion lies in teaching and shaping the next generation of nursing scientists, choose the Nurse Education Track.
Family Nurse Practitioner Track
To complete this track, you must complete 49 course credit hours, 600 practicum hours, and a comprehensive exam. Once completed, you are eligible to take the national examinations for the family nurse practitioner certification. Please note: If you plan to enter the Family Nurse Practitioner track, you need at least three years of professional nursing experience in acute care to be accepted.
Nurse Educator Track
You must complete 35 course credit hours, 180 practicum hours, a comprehensive exam and two years as a full-time faculty member. Once completed, you will be eligible to take the National League for Nursing examination to become a certified nurse educator.
See catalogs for full course breakdown.
Already have a Master of Science in Nursing? See our Post-Master's Certificate programs.
Get Your Career Started Here
Build Your Career Skills
There are a wide range of professional organizations you can join, like the National League for Nursing, Maryland Nursing Association, American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Practitioners Association of Maryland and Sigma Theta Tau. These different groups can help you expand your network and provide valuable resources and support to boost your confidence as a professional.Handshake
After enrolling, take advantage of Bowie State's many opportunities and get familiar with Handshake. Handshake is an online database for Bowie State students that allows thousands of employers to post internships and job openings. Use this tool to secure an internship while you study or to jump-start your career after you graduate.
Career Outlook
As a nurse practitioner, you can work in private and collaborative practices, urgent care, emergency rooms, specialty practices, hospital networks, administrative leadership, educational settings or research.When you choose Bowie State, we will connect you with our many partnerships to help you access internships, immersive learning opportunities, and career pathways to help kickstart your future.
I have found so much support in the graduate nursing school program, from my professors to my classmates. The program is packed full of information to learn and the faculty find fun and interesting ways for us to learn, including attending conferences.
- Alana Wright-Burton
Graduate Resources
We’ve compiled a list of resources to help you navigate your graduate studies and get the most out of your educational experience. Make an appointment to receive writing assistance, reserve a private study space or contact Disability Support Services for additional accommodations.
Graduate Assistantships
You can apply for a limited number of graduate assistantships and receive a monthly stipend and a tuition waiver for 9 credit hours a semester. You will work 20 hours a week as a researcher, teacher or administrative assistant.
To qualify, be a full-time graduate/doctoral student with at least 9 completed credits and a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Deadlines
- Spring Appointments: Second Friday of November
- Fall Appointments: Last Friday in March
Meet Faculty and Staff
Get to know the expert faculty and staff who’ll be instructing you throughout your time at Bowie State. Build connections, ask for mentorship and receive guidance as you prepare to embark on your career. Meet your professors!
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Get Involved With Bowie State
Clubs and Organizations
No matter what your interests are, there is a student organization for you here at Bowie State. You have options ranging from academic and spiritually focused organizations to student leadership, Greek life, student government and commuter involvement. Find your people and get involved today.
Community Service
Gain a greater understanding of your roles in the community, as well as the impact of your contributions toward those in need. Connect with others who understand the importance of community service and build a network of friends, colleagues and team members. Together, we can make a positive impact.